Bab 241: Chapter 241: Planning a New Industry
The following day, Han Yezhen and her design team began inspecting various plots of land. Victor had secured five potential sites, and Han Yezhen had the freedom to choose the one that best suited their needs.
After evaluating several options, Han Yezhen concluded that the land under Jiulongtang and Lion Rock were the most promising. The beach area was too humid, and Sha Tin was too remote. Ultimately, the decision hinged on the properties of the land near Lion Rock.
Returning to Mr. Situ's house, Han Yezhen was greeted by the old man, who had arranged a nourishing stew.
"How did it go?" Mr. Situ asked as he served the soup.
Han Yezhen took a sip and replied, "The land under Jiulongtang and Lion Rock are both suitable, but Jiulongtang is designated as an industrial area. It would be impractical to include a museum amidst a large industrial zone."
"I see," Mr. Situ nodded. "What about the Lion Rock area?"
"If we use the land under Lion Rock, we'll need a large space to ensure the museum's safety," Han Yezhen explained. "The current maps are quite basic. We are surveying the terrain to determine the best location."
Mr. Situ pondered for a moment before suggesting, "I know a reputable Feng Shui master who could help with this. His name is Cai Lianfang."
"Feng Shui?" Han Yezhen was intrigued. Although she had studied Feng Shui in her architecture courses, she had never fully embraced it.
Mr. Situ continued, "Cai Lianfang's father, Cai Zubai, was a renowned Feng Shui master during the Qing Dynasty. After the fall of the Qing Dynasty, Cai Zubai and his son moved to Hong Kong. Cai Lianfang followed in his father's footsteps and became a well-known Feng Shui master himself."
"He visits me occasionally, and I can ask him to assist with your project if you'd like," Mr. Situ offered.
Han Yezhen smiled. "I appreciate the offer, Grandpa. It might be useful to get his perspective. Please go ahead and contact him."
Mr. Situ nodded and smiled. "Enjoy your meal. Are you adjusting well to the local cuisine?"
Han Yezhen laughed. "I have a taste for both Chinese and Western food, so I'm managing just fine."
The following day, Han Yezhen's team was joined by two new members: Cai Lianfang and his son Cai Boli. Cai Lianfang, in his fifties, wore a traditional gray cloth gown, while his son, Cai Boli, was dressed in a modern suit. They began inspecting the land under Lion Rock.
Cai Lianfang, using a compass, examined the terrain while discussing his observations with his son. Han Yezhen, curious about their findings, asked, "Master Cai, what do you think of this site for building a museum?"
Cai Lianfang handed the compass to his son and said, "Miss Han, to be honest, building a museum here might not be the best use of the land."
Han Yezhen was surprised. "Why do you say that?"
Cai Lianfang explained, "Museums are primarily for storing collections. As long as you protect them from fire and water, the location is less critical. However, this land is exceptionally auspicious."
He pointed to Lion Rock and continued, "Lion Rock has a distinctive shape—the head faces west, and the body and tail extend across the mountain. This area is protected by the mountain's 'dragon veins,' and its shape resembles a 'bat carrying a basket.' The Feng Shui here is excellent. It's ideal for both residential and commercial purposes, as long as you preserve the mountain's integrity."
Han Yezhen listened intently. While she only partially understood the intricate details, she recognized the land's potential.
Cai Lianfang added, "However, there is one precaution. Feng Shui emphasizes the importance of topography. Altering the landscape could change the Feng Shui, and whether it becomes better or worse is uncertain."
After the survey, Han Yezhen returned to Mr. Situ's house. The old man had just finished a phone call with Cai Lianfang.
"Cai Lianfang informed me that the land under Lion Rock is highly favorable, but he also mentioned that using it for a museum might be a waste. He believes that building a house here would enhance the master's fortune," Mr. Situ said with a smile.
Han Yezhen replied, "I believe we can make it work as a museum and still benefit Hardy's fortunes."
Mr. Situ chuckled. "It seems you've already made up your mind."
Despite feeling confident about the land's suitability, Han Yezhen decided to send a telegram to Hardy for final confirmation.
Upon receiving the telegram, Hardy reviewed it carefully. He agreed with Han Yezhen's assessment and instructed, "Proceed with the museum under Lion Rock. Allocate all 180 acres of land to the museum. Additionally, Victor should acquire the surrounding land to ensure the protection of Lion Rock's landscape."
The 180 acres were equivalent to nearly 720,000 square meters, comparable to the size of the Forbidden City. Hardy was aware of the future impact of human development and preferred to secure the land to preserve its Feng Shui.
Hardy also added a note to the telegram, suggesting that the Cai family be hired as the Feng Shui experts for the Hong Kong branch of Hardy Group.
Han Yezhen received Hardy's confirmation and instructed the construction team to proceed with the planning. Victor took on the task of acquiring the land, which involved negotiating with the government.
Victor learned that the land surrounding Lion Rock was still owned by the government and that the area was protected due to its proximity to a reservoir. The government had designated it as an "indestructible area" to safeguard the environment and water resources.
Victor explained that Hardy Group intended to purchase the land not for development but to preserve the landform. After discussing with Governor Grantham, Victor received approval to purchase the land with the condition that no extensive damage would be caused.
The deal was finalized for £550,000, and Hardy Group acquired over 300 acres of land surrounding Lion Rock, including the reservoir area.
With the museum project officially underway, Hardy continued to focus on expanding his business empire. The company was preparing to launch supermarket chains and logistics companies as part of its three-year plan.
Two new presidents were recruited: Sam Wharton for the supermarket chain and a former vice president of United Parcel Service of America for the logistics company. Both positions were offered on an annual salary plus dividend basis.
Hardy planned to build several large-scale logistics warehouses across the United States, starting with a few in Los Angeles and San Francisco. The locations were chosen in the suburbs, avoiding central areas where poverty was more prevalent.
Hardy believed in creating a robust supply chain and management team to support the supermarket and logistics ventures. The goal was to provide high-quality products at competitive prices and to build a successful network that could adapt and thrive in the evolving market.
Bab 242: Chapter 242: President Johnson’s Request
The main building of each supermarket must be no smaller than 5,000 square meters, with parking lots at least three times the size of the main building, all offering free parking.
For fresh produce and agricultural goods, Hardy Group plans to partner with Crocker Agriculture Group, which supplies a comprehensive range of products including vegetables, fruits, rice, noodles, grains, nuts, meat, seafood, and flowers.
Additionally, the product range will include food, daily necessities, clothing, toys, household items, appliances, cosmetics, firearms, and ammunition.
Hardy's strategy involves implementing a contract-based supply model, aiming to have tens of thousands of suppliers to maintain low prices for customers. This is a major undertaking.
Hardy addressed the two new presidents.
"Hunt, the logistics company has received an investment of $5 million. The 10,000 trucks are yours, and the staff will be experienced veterans. Oversee the construction of the logistics company, and if you encounter any issues, contact me."
"Understood, Boss," Hunt replied.
"Sam Wharton, the supermarket chain will start with five locations—three in Los Angeles and two in San Francisco. I expect these to be operational within a year and a half. The staff will also be veterans; you'll handle hiring for female cashiers."
"I understand, Boss," Sam Wharton responded.
Hardy was prepared to make changes if needed, but he was optimistic about these ventures. He recognized that both industries had significant growth potential, and success largely depended on the people in charge.
Chain supermarkets are not just profitable; they provide a substantial cash flow. Merchants typically finance their purchases for one to three months, leading to significant financial benefits over time.
Securing contracts with tens of thousands of merchants also allows Hardy to control a vast industrial chain, which is strategically important.
Similarly, the logistics industry is crucial. Major General Williams was at work when the phone rang.
"Major General Williams, this is the White House office. Mr. President wishes to speak with you."
Williams, surprised, straightened up. He had previously met President Johnson during a logistics meeting about handling surplus materials, where Johnson had decided that Williams would oversee the supplies.
"Major General Williams," President Johnson's voice came through the phone.
"Hello, Mr. President. This is Williams."
"I reviewed your report. Selling over $400 million worth of goods in the first half of the year is impressive. You've done an excellent job," President Johnson said.
"Thank you, Mr. President. It's my duty," Williams replied modestly.
"Could you explain how you achieved this?" the president inquired.
Williams responded, "We partnered with a company to handle sales, which has greatly helped us."
The president, accustomed to outsourcing, asked, "Which company?"
"The Hardy Group," Williams answered.
President Johnson knew of the Hardy Group's rapid rise and its dominance in the media with ABC TV and its magazines.
"Are you familiar with Hardy?" Johnson asked.
Williams replied, "Yes, I know him well. Hardy suggested outsourcing the sales tasks to his company, which has proven effective. He said professional tasks are best handled by professionals."
Johnson contemplated this. With his re-election campaign struggling, he saw an opportunity. Dewey, his Republican opponent, was leading by a wide margin, and Johnson's approval rating was low. Johnson needed to boost his visibility.
The ABC TV network, owned by Hardy Group, was the highest-rated network, and an interview with Hardy's network could significantly enhance his campaign.
Johnson decided to contact Hardy. He returned to his desk, called the White House office, and requested, "Call Major General Williams back. I need to speak with him again."
Williams, preparing to leave, received the call. "Hello?"
"Major General Williams, the President wants to speak with you again. Please answer the call."
Williams was curious. "Hello, Mr. President."
"Williams, I need your help contacting Mr. Hardy. I'd like to arrange an interview on ABC TV. Can you facilitate this?" Johnson asked.
"I'll assist with the contact, Mr. President," Williams assured him.
After ending the call, Williams reflected on the situation. He knew Johnson's re-election prospects were dim, and Hardy's political affiliations might influence his decision.
Hardy, initially surprised by Johnson's request, took time to consider. After ten minutes of contemplation, he said, "General Williams, I'd like to meet with President Johnson personally before making a decision."
"Understood. I'll arrange the meeting," Williams replied.
President Johnson, upon hearing that Hardy wanted a personal meeting, felt hopeful. "Tell Mr. Hardy to meet me at a private golf course in Washington tomorrow."
Johnson's decision to reach out to Hardy was a strategic move in his campaign, demonstrating his desperation and determination to leverage all available resources for a potential comeback.
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